Trail Foundation announces $2.5 million improvement to Butler Trail

Earlier this week, the Trail Foundation announced that its newest project will be a major upgrade of the trail under the north end of the Ann Richards Congress Avenue Bridge. Anyone who has experienced the current configuration (and blind curve) of this elevated section of the trail will understand the need for improvements, and the foundation will spend $2.5 million to make those improvements through its “Trail Bridge at Congress Avenue” project. According to a press release about the overhaul, the funding comes from donor Robert F. Smith, who is the founder, chairman and chief executive officer of Vista Equity Partners. He has committed a pledge of $1.25 million toward the new project. The foundation launched its own matching campaign and will raise $1.25 million more. The new bridge is expected to be completed in two years and, when done, will be 14 feet wide.